Ordinary seaman
Videos
An ordinary seaman is a member of the deck department of a ship. The position is an apprenticeship to become an able seaman, and has been for centuries. In modern times, an OS is required to work on a
Ordinary Seaman
AB's were in high demand during World War II.
Ordinary seaman chipping
Ordinary seamen swabbing deck
Able seaman
Videos
An able seaman is a seaman and member of the deck department of a merchant ship with more than two years' experience at sea and considered "well acquainted with his duty". An AB may work as a watchsta
Ordinary seaman
…An ordinary seaman (OS) is a member of the deck department of a ship. The position is an apprenticeship to become an able seaman, and has been for centuries. In modern times, an OS is required to work on a ship for a specific amount of time, gaining what is referred to as "sea…
Able seamen generally serve as a ship's helmsmen, relying on visual references, compasses, and a rudder angle indicator to steer a steady course as directed by the mate or other officer on the bridge.
Dayworker AB preparing a mast for painting
Knowing how to safely work aloft to maintain cargo rigging is a skill required of an AB.